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Ovarian Cancer: Breaking the Silence on the “Silent Killer”

According to the British Gynaecological Cancer Society, approximately 1.3% of women in the general population will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime.* While this may seem like a small number, the impact is significant — especially when many cases are detected only in the later stages.

Ovarian cancer has long been referred to as a “silent killer” — but what does that really mean? And more importantly, can we break that silence?

In this article, we explore ovarian cancer through the lens of Dr. Ashley Chung, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist with expertise in Fertility Medicine at Sunway Medical Centre Velocity. Dr. Ashley sheds light on why ovarian cancer remains so elusive, who faces the greatest risk — including younger, unmarried women under 40 — and what steps can be taken to promote earlier detection, informed awareness, and proactive care.

*British Gynaecological Cancer Society (BGCS)

Why Is Ovarian Cancer So Difficult to Detect?

Ovarian cancer is notorious for being hard to catch early. In the beginning, it often causes no symptoms at all. And when symptoms do appear, they are typically vague — such as bloating, feeling full quickly, fatigue, or mild pelvic pain. These signs can easily be mistaken for everyday digestive issues or hormonal changes, causing many women to delay seeking care.

Because of this, the disease is frequently diagnosed in later stages when it has already spread beyond the ovaries, making treatment more difficult and outcomes more serious.

Understanding the Disease

Ovarian cancer begins in or around the ovaries — the small organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. As cancerous cells grow uncontrollably, they can form tumours, invade nearby tissues, and eventually spread throughout the abdomen and beyond.

There are different types of ovarian cancer. The most common is epithelial ovarian cancer, which affects the cells on the surface of the ovary. Less common types include stromal tumours (which may be detected earlier due to hormonal changes) and germ cell tumours, which are more often seen in younger patients.

Who Is at Risk?

Several risk factors can increase a woman’s likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. These include age (especially after menopause), family history of ovarian or breast cancer, inherited gene mutations such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, endometriosis, obesity, and never having been pregnant.

Recognising the Signs Early

While the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be subtle, they should not be ignored — especially if they persist or feel unusual. Signs that may warrant a medical check-up include ongoing abdominal bloating, or feeling full quickly, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, back or pelvic pain, and changes in bowel or bladder habits.

If any of these symptoms last more than two weeks, it’s worth consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed and Treated?

Doctors typically use a combination of methods to detect ovarian cancer. This might include a pelvic examination, imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI, blood tests for tumour markers such as CA-125, and in some cases, a biopsy or surgery to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment often involves surgery to remove the tumour — and possibly the ovaries, uterus, or surrounding lymph nodes — followed by chemotherapy or vice versa - meaning chemotherapy followed by debunking surgery to remove tumour, uterus , cervix and ovaries. Depending on the case, targeted therapies or hormone treatments may also be considered.

What Can We Do to Improve Outcomes?

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, several steps can reduce the risk or lead to earlier detection:

• Know your family history. Share this information with your doctor, especially if you have close relatives with breast or ovarian cancer.

• Consider genetic counselling if you have BRCA or related gene mutations.

• Be alert to persistent symptoms and seek early medical attention.

• Spread awareness. Talking about ovarian cancer can encourage others to get checked and take symptoms seriously.
   

Final Thoughts

Ovarian cancer is often called a “silent killer” — but silence doesn’t mean hopeless. With greater awareness, earlier diagnosis, and proactive screening, we can change what this disease looks like in the future. Knowledge saves lives. Let’s break the silence together.

If you have questions or concerns about ovarian care, our Obstetrics & Gynaecology specialists are here to support you every step of the way.

Visit our Women’s Health Centre to learn more.